Dear BeingGirl Experts,

I have stretch marks in certain areas of my body like around the hips. They're very light but they're annoying. I'm not fat or anything so what are these things?

Samantha

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Dear Samantha,

Stretch marks are stripes or lines that appear when skin stretches rapidly. This can happen when someone grows or develops very quickly (during puberty), gains weight in a short amount of time, or becomes pregnant. Stretch marks are very common. The lines start out as purple or reddish and eventually fade to a silvery color. The texture of the lines feels different than the rest of the skin in the area. While there are creams and products that say they can prevent or repair stretch marks, we do not know of any that work for sure. If stretch marks are really bothering you, talk to a dermatologist (skin doctor). He/she may be able to help. If you notice stretch marks appearing for no particular reason—not related to any sort of rapid growth or changes in your body s shape or size—ask your health care provider about them.

Hope this is helpful,

Your BeingGirl Experts